Best Italian
- Address 1: 968 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (original location)
- Phone 1: (865) 430-4090
- Address 2: 710 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (express location)
- Phone 2: (865) 436-4345
- Website: bestitalian.com
- Type: Italian (New York Style)
- Alcohol: Yes, full bar
- Family-Friendly: Yes, kids’ menu & highchairs available
- Pricing: $$
- Delivery: No
- Take-Out: Yes
- Hours:
- Sunday | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Monday to Saturday | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Best Italian on the Parkway is a longtime Gatlinburg favorite serving hearty New York-style Italian cuisine in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Located right on the Parkway, this casual restaurant has been dishing out generous portions, hand-tossed pizzas, and classic pasta dishes since 1976. With a full bar, quick service, and take-out available, it’s a dependable stop for families, couples, and hungry hikers alike.
Food Highlights
Best Italian on the Parkway brings authentic Italian-American comfort food to the Smokies, with recipes perfected over decades and a focus on fresh ingredients.
- Hand-Tossed Pizzas: Classic New York-style pies with a crisp crust and toppings like pepperoni, sausage, and fresh vegetables
- Fettuccine Alfredo: Creamy, rich Alfredo sauce coating tender pasta
- Spaghetti with Marinara: Slow-simmered tomato sauce over hearty noodles
- Lasagna: Layered with meat, cheese, and sauce for a comforting baked favorite
- Garlic Knots: Fresh-baked, brushed with olive oil, garlic, herbs, and cheese
Signature Dishes
- Oversized Calzones: Stuffed with ricotta, mozzarella, and Italian meats for a filling handheld option
- Garlic Knots: A fan favorite starter that keeps guests coming back
- Bloody Mary: A standout cocktail choice from the lively bar
Portions are generous, flavors are bold, and the menu leans into classic Italian-American favorites done right.
Atmosphere & Experience
Open since 1976, Best Italian blends nostalgic charm with a casual, welcoming vibe. The dining room supports everything from quick lunches to relaxed evening meals, while the central Parkway location makes it an easy stop between attractions.
Guests frequently highlight:
- Swift, attentive service—even during busy seasons
- Consistent quality and value
- A relaxed, no-fuss atmosphere perfect for vacation dining
Family Appeal
Families will appreciate:
- Kids’ menu with smaller pizza and pasta portions
- Highchairs available
- A comfortable, accommodating environment for groups
Whether you’re refueling after a day in the Great Smoky Mountains or grabbing take-out for the cabin, Best Italian on the Parkway delivers dependable Italian classics with mountain-town convenience.
- Address 1: 968 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (original location)
- Phone 1: (865) 430-4090
- Address 2: 710 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (express location)
- Phone 2: (865) 436-4345
- Website: bestitalian.com
- Type: Italian (New York Style)
- Alcohol: Yes, full bar
- Family-Friendly: Yes, kids’ menu & highchairs available
- Pricing: $$
- Delivery: No
- Take-Out: Yes
- Hours:
- Sunday | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Monday to Saturday | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Best Italian on the Parkway serves classic New York-style Italian food right in the heart of Gatlinburg. Open since 1976, this longtime Parkway staple is known for generous portions, hand-tossed pizzas, hearty pasta dishes, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Full bar and take-out make it an easy stop for lunch or dinner.
Why Stop
- New York-style pizza with a crisp, foldable crust
- Large portions that are easy to share
- Full bar with cocktails, including the popular Bloody Mary
- Longstanding local favorite since 1976
- Convenient Parkway location near major attractions
Must-Try Dishes
- Hand-tossed pizza: Pepperoni, sausage, and veggie classics
- Fettuccine Alfredo: Rich and creamy comfort food
- Spaghetti with marinara: Slow-simmered tomato sauce
- Lasagna: Layered with meat, cheese, and sauce
- Oversized calzones: Packed with ricotta, mozzarella, and Italian meats
- Garlic knots: Fresh-baked and brushed with garlic, olive oil, and herbs
Good to Know
- Portions are generous, consider sharing or taking leftovers
- Service is typically fast, even during busy tourist seasons
- Casual, come-as-you-are atmosphere
- Great option for dine-in or grabbing take-out for your cabin
- Can get busy during peak dinner hours
Best For
- Families with kids
- Casual group dinners
- Comfort food cravings
- Tourists wanting a reliable Parkway meal
- Quick, satisfying Italian after a long day exploring
A dependable Gatlinburg classic for pizza, pasta, and easygoing Italian comfort food.
Disclaimer
My Smoky Mountain Guide aims to provide accurate, up-to-date information about Great Smoky Mountains National Park and surrounding areas, using reputable sources. However, details about events, attractions, trails, or businesses may change without notice due to factors like weather or park policies. We cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of our content. Visitors should verify details with official sources, such as the National Park Service or local businesses, before planning. My Smoky Mountain Guide is not liable for inaccuracies, omissions, or consequences from using this information. You are responsible for your own decisions based on our content. For feedback or corrections, please contact us.
